This 2007 lieder recital from Munich's Prinzregententheater found Hampson at the height of his artistry, singing a world premiere recording of the original 1840 version of Dichterliebe Op. 48 and Zwölf Gedichte Op. 35.

"Arguably baritone Thomas Hampson is the greatest lieder interpreter America has ever produced. A thinking man's singer, he combines a beautiful voice with exemplary musicality, a deep interest in and understanding of the text, and a genuine commitment to the recital stage that has never diminished in his nearly 30-year career. Never has Schumann sounded so profound as Hampson sings it, with all the joy and pain on the score virtually jumping off the page at the listener. A long-time resident of Vienna, Hampson's German is impeccable. In excellent voice, he takes vocal chances—using falsetto when needed…. The opening lines of 'Stille Tränen' sung in a hushed tone, are gorgeous. 'Es leuchtet meine Liebe' with its high tessitura, would have defeated many singers, but Hampson delivers it with great authority."—The Music Scene

"Hampson rarely disappoints. This recital captures the baritone at his best, singing one set of songs that is not really a cycle and then the collection he discovered, the 20 airs and songs of a 'lyrical interlude' which was later reduced by four songs, slightly reworked, and published as Dichterliebe."—Fanfare